Bradenton Beehive Removal Doubles as First Responder Training
A massive beehive, home to an estimated 50,000 to 70,000 bees, became both a safety concern and a training opportunity for first responders in a Bradenton neighborhood this week.
The hive, perched 24 feet high in a tree at a residence off Riverview Boulevard, had been growing since the summer. Homeowner Oliver Howells, concerned for neighbors and a nearby school, reached out to Noble Nectar Apiaries for help. He also invited local fire agencies to use the removal as a live training exercise.
Crews from North River Fire Rescue, Southern Manatee Fire Rescue, and West Manatee Fire Rescue, along with Manatee County EMS and Hazardous Materials teams, gathered at the home to take part. Wearing protective bee suits, they worked alongside the beekeepers, practicing response tactics while ensuring the safe relocation of the hive.
A fire truck ladder was used to reach the colony, and in just over an hour, the bees and their queen were carefully secured for transport to a new home. Noble Nectar Apiaries emphasized the importance of preserving the hive, noting that bees play a crucial role in food production and the health of ecosystems.
For the firefighters, the experience provided real-world practice in managing unusual emergencies that could pose risks to the community. Officials said the proactive approach was far better than waiting for an incident to occur.
The hive will now be relocated to a location where the colony can thrive safely, transforming a neighborhood concern into both a learning experience and a win for local pollinators.
Fire rescue leaders remind residents to contact professional beekeepers if they discover hives and to call 911 only in the event of an immediate emergency.
